FOXO3A (Forkhead box class O 3A) is a transcription factor belonging to the FOXO family, which plays a critical role in regulating cellular processes such as apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, stress resistance, and longevity. It is activated in response to oxidative stress, nutrient deprivation, or reduced insulin/IGF-1 signaling, primarily through post-translational modifications (e.g., phosphorylation, acetylation) that influence its subcellular localization and activity. FOXO3A antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, regulation, and function in both physiological and pathological contexts, including cancer, aging, and metabolic disorders.
These antibodies are designed to detect FOXO3A in various applications, such as Western blotting (WB), immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and flow cytometry. They may target specific regions (e.g., N-terminal, C-terminal) or modified forms (e.g., phosphorylated FOXO3A at specific residues like Ser318/321 or Ser253). Monoclonal antibodies offer high specificity, while polyclonal antibodies may detect multiple epitopes, enhancing sensitivity.
Validation of FOXO3A antibodies is crucial due to potential cross-reactivity with other FOXO family members (FOXO1. FOXO4. FOXO6) or isoforms. Researchers must consider species reactivity (human, mouse, rat) and experimental conditions (e.g., lysate preparation, fixation methods) to ensure accurate results. FOXO3A antibodies have advanced studies on its tumor-suppressive roles, its interaction with pathways like PI3K/AKT and mTOR, and its association with lifespan extension in model organisms. Proper antibody selection and validation remain key to elucidating FOXO3A’s complex regulatory networks in health and disease.